20151021 Endurance

ENDURANCE

Matthew 10:21-22 "A brother will betray his brother to death, a father will betray his own child, and children will rebel against their parents and cause them to be killed.  (22)  And all nations will hate you because you are My followers. But everyone who endures to the end will be saved.

It is a dark time in our world. All over Christians are being persecuted. It is imperative to remember that the world hates us because we follow Jesus. They hated Him, and they hate us. The key word in these two verses is in the word, “but.” Everyone who endures to the end will be saved.

I like the way the People’s New Testament Commentary explains this last sentence… “Perseverance gives proof of genuine faith, and is sure of reward.”

Peter encouraged his readers… 2 Peter 1:10 So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away.

Is your faith genuine? Will you be able to endure when persecution comes? Will you be faithful? Is your religion really just a convenience? Are you in it for the long haul and for God’s glory?

Father in heaven, it’s getting ugly down here in a lot of places. Every day we hear about more of Your children who have been persecuted, tortured for the faith and even killed. Grant that our faith not fail. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and give us grace to keep on proclaiming Your goodness. Even so, Lord Jesus come. In Jesus Name, AMEN!!!

20150928 GOD OF ACTION

GOD OF ACTION

Matthew 9:18-19  As Jesus was saying this, the leader of a synagogue came and knelt before Him. "My daughter has just died," he said, "but You can bring her back to life again if You just come and lay Your hand on her."  (19)  So Jesus and His disciples got up and went with Him.

I’ve been focusing on the words of Christ, thus the title of the blog, Red Letter Discipleship. Actions often speak louder than words. This man, the leader of a synagogue comes to Jesus and expresses incredible faith. His daughter is not ill, she’s dead. There is no pulse, no breath and from a human standpoint, no hope. Yet he says, “but You can bring her back to life again if You just come and lay Your hand on her.”

Not only does He show faith, but also respect for Jesus by kneeling before Him.

The response is that Jesus gets up and goes with him. Over and over the scripture assures us that faith will move God to action.

As you face the trials of this day are you aware of God’s presence with you? Are you aware of the promises that He has made? Will you look to Him first to be a God of action on your behalf in your situation?

Father in heaven, thank You that we can trust You and that You are with us always. Help us turn to You and Your faithful promises in all situations. In Jesus Name, AMEN!!!